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''low. They then go behind the curtain, leaving the Thanes on the front of the stage, who stand fixed in silent and horrid expectation; except Selred, who sits down upon the ground with his face hid between his knees, and Hereulf, who rising suddenly from the ground, looks wildly round, and seeing Ethelbert gone, throws himself down again in all the distraction of grief and despair.)'' Now do'ff his garment and undo his vest, Fie on it, there! assist the prisoner.

Sec. Voice. Let some one hold his hands.

Third Voice. Do ye that office. (a pause of some length.)

Voice again. Heads-man, let fall thy blow, he gives the sign.

''Thanes. (shrinking involuntarily, and all speaking at once.)'' The stroke of death is given!